How to Make Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon – Quick, Easy, and Delicious!
Who says healthy eating has to be boring? Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon paired with perfectly steamed broccoli is a dish that is equal parts nutritious and delicious. Whether you’re a home cook seeking a simple weeknight dinner, a seafood enthusiast seeking bold flavors, or simply seeking to incorporate more nutrients into your meals, this recipe caters to your needs!
Salmon, rich in omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein, has cemented its place as a superfood. Pair it with crisp, vibrant broccoli, and you have a meal that’s satisfying, nourishing, and perfect for those seeking a balanced diet. Let’s get cooking!
The Recipe – Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- Salmon: 4 fresh salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
- For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
- For the Broccoli:
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (for steaming)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Prep the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and season lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.
Make the Sauce:
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Cook the Salmon:
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small drizzle of olive oil.
- Place salmon fillets flesh-side down and sear for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Flip the fillets over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the skin is crispy and the salmon is nearly cooked through.
Glaze the Salmon:
- Pour the honey garlic sauce into the skillet with the salmon. Spoon the sauce over the fillets as it bubbles and thickens (about 2 minutes). Remove from heat once the salmon is fully cooked and glistening with the glaze.
Steam the Broccoli:
- Place broccoli florets in a heatproof steamer basket or colander. Add 1-2 inches of water to a pot and bring to a boil.
- Place the steamer with broccoli over the pot, cover, and steam for 5-6 minutes or until vibrant green and tender. Drizzle with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Plate the salmon fillets alongside the broccoli and drizzle any leftover glaze from the pan over the top. Serve immediately and savor the goodness!
Read more: Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zoodles: A Recipe for Healthy Food Lovers
The Health Benefits of Salmon and Broccoli
This dish is a powerhouse of nutrition.
Salmon:
- High in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health and reduce inflammation.
- Packed with protein to support muscle repair and satiety.
- Rich in B vitamins and selenium, which support energy metabolism and immune function.
Broccoli:
- A cruciferous vegetable loaded with vitamins C and K, aiding immunity and bone health.
- High in fiber, keeping digestion happy.
- Offers potent antioxidants, like sulforaphane, which fight inflammation and may reduce cancer risk.
These ingredients work together to create a dish that provides protein, healthy fats, fiber, and essential micronutrients.
Tips for Selecting and Storing Ingredients
Great meals start with great ingredients. Here’s how to pick the best salmon and broccoli for your meal.
Salmon Selection:
- Look for salmon that’s firm, bright, and moist—not slimy or dull.
- Smell it! Fresh salmon should have a mild, ocean-like scent. Avoid anything with a strong, “fishy” odor.
- When in doubt, opt for sustainably sourced salmon.
Storing Salmon:
- Keep fresh salmon in the coldest part of your refrigerator and use within 1-2 days.
- To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place in an airtight bag. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Choosing Broccoli:
- Look for broccoli with bright green florets and firm stalks. Avoid any bunches turning yellow or with soft spots.
- Store in the fridge crisper drawer for up to 5-7 days to maintain freshness.
Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, frozen broccoli is a great alternative. It’s picked and frozen at peak ripeness, locking in nutrients!
Serving Suggestions
While this recipe is excellent on its own, feel free to experiment with these side dish ideas to satisfy your cravings.
- Fluffy Jasmine Rice: Perfect for soaking up the honey garlic sauce.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add a creamy, comforting touch.
- Quinoa Salad: A light, grain-based side that marries well with the salmon’s glaze.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The caramelized sweetness complements the glaze beautifully.
- Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb alternative to pasta or rice.
Don’t be afraid to get creative—this dish easily adapts to different sides and cuisines!
Versatility for Any Occasion
Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon isn’t just a weeknight go-to—it’s perfect for special occasions too!
- Hosting a dinner party? Impress your guests with this beautiful, flavorful dish.
- Meal prepping? Make a double batch, portion it out with your favorite sides, and enjoy throughout the week.
- Kid-friendly meal? Substitute honey for maple syrup to cater to younger palates while keeping the dish sweet and savory.
This recipe’s flexibility makes it a must-have in any home cook’s repertoire.
Share Your Creations!
Cooking is always better when shared with others. We’d love to hear about your experience making this recipe! Did you create a fun twist? Pair it with a unique side dish? Share your photos and tips online using #HoneyGarlicSalmon.
Looking for more delicious recipes or cooking inspiration? Check out our favorite seafood cookbook to elevate your home cooking game!
